Comparing the Different Types of Water Heaters

All water heaters have basically the same function—to supply hot water to any source in your house. The means by which these units heat and store water can differ since there are types with different design and construction features. Understanding the various processes by which they do their job can help you, as a homeowner, pick the right one for your needs.

Conventional Type Water Heater

A conventional type water heater is the oldest, most traditional type of unit offered. These units are easily recognizable as the tall cylindrical tank that sits upright inside a utility closet or basement. They usually have a volume capacity stated in gallons; the larger tank will hold more hot water and provide a longer session use.

Electricity or gas is used to heat the water, although gas has proven to be more energy efficient and to heat water faster than electric types. Water which collects in the tank is heated from the bottom and dispersed when a hot water faucet is turned on.

For new water heater installation, conventional tank units are the easiest to install and cost the least amount of money upfront.

Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater can run on gas, electricity, or propane. Lately they have become popular due to their improved elimination of wasted heat energy, something that is typical of conventional systems.

Tankless units have no large storage tank. They function by using a series of tubes or pipes heated by heating elements; once activated, these heating elements heat the water instantaneously. They turn on by a flowing current trigger switch, initiating and maintaining heat to the desired temperature. This on-demand system can perpetually heat water during an endless cycle without running out of hot water.

The cost for installing a tankless unit is higher than that of conventional types, but extra savings are recuperated with better energy efficiency.

Hybrid Type Water Heater

A hybrid water heater uses the combined design construction of a tankless and conventional tank water heater. Current models use water that passes around a series of pipes, traveling in multiple loops to heat the water faster. Hybrid units have an additional holding reservoir to keep extra hot water for increased demand so it never runs out.

Upgrade Your Water Heater Today

If you’re tired of waiting for your water to heat up before you shower, wash dishes or clean, it’s time to consider upgrading your water heater. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Dallas, we can help you choose the model that’s right for your needs, your budget and your lifestyle. Call our plumbers in Plano at 972-301-8387 for a consultation.